A poster of the exhibition "Between the Lines: The Civilizational Code in Chinese Characters." [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The exhibition "Between the Lines: The Civilizational Code in Chinese Characters" opened Tuesday at the China Cultural Center in Cairo, providing Egyptian audiences with an immersive exploration of the history and cultural significance of Chinese writing.

Co-hosted by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), the people's government of Anyang city in Henan province, the China Cultural Center in Cairo, the National Museum of Chinese Writing, and the Egypt-China Friendship Association, this exhibition showcases nearly 100 Chinese characters. It traces their evolution from oracle bone inscriptions to regular script, highlighting how Chinese writing reflects cultural memory and the heritage of civilization. 

The exhibition also demonstrates the significant role of Chinese characters in documenting historical development, advancements in science and technology, and the spiritual life of the people.

Zhang Yi, cultural counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Egypt and director of the China Cultural Center in Cairo, highlighted that the exhibition not only showcases the evolution of Chinese characters but also deepens appreciation for their historical and cultural significance. By placing Chinese writing alongside ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, he explained, visitors gain a greater understanding of connections between two of the world's oldest civilizations.

Ali el-Hefny, vice-chairman of the Egypt-China Friendship Association, emphasized that the event fosters mutual learning and cultural exchange, further strengthening the ties between the Egyptian and Chinese peoples. 

Qing Boming, director of the Department of Cultural Exchange at CPAFFC, expressed hope that the exhibition and related activities would open a window for Egyptians to explore Chinese civilization, appreciate the beauty of Chinese characters, and gain insights into the rich cultural depth of Chinese modernization.

Alongside the exhibition, experts from the National Museum of Chinese Writing delivered a special lecture on Chinese oracle bone inscriptions and ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. They also engaged in a dialogue with Professor Elsawy Elsawy Ahmed of Benha University, discussing the current state and future development of the cultural and art museums in both countries.

Originally launched in Paris in 2024, the traveling exhibition was later featured at United Nations Headquarters in New York during the UN Chinese Language Day in April. The Cairo exhibition at the Center will continue until Sept. 30.